GANDERBAL: SKUAST-K, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Ganderbal, convened a State Level Workshop on the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act (PPV&FRA, 2001). The workshop served as a dynamic platform for scientists, policymakers, farmers, and civil society members to engage in meaningful dialogue on the Act’s transformative role in safeguarding the interests of farmers and plant breeders while encouraging the development of new plant varieties.

The event was graced by Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie,  Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K, as Chief Guest, and Prof. Raihana H. Kanth, Director Extension SKUAST-K, as Guest of Honour. Heads and scientists from various KVKs of Kashmir, officials from line departments, farm women, and members of civil society were also present.

Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K, in his address underscored the Act’s robust framework for protecting plant varieties, farmers’ rights, and breeders’ innovations, while lauding the dedicated efforts of KVK Ganderbal in advancing farmer empowerment. Director Extension SKUAST-K, shared valuable insights on the Act, congratulated the KVK team for their unwavering commitment to farmer welfare, and stressed the importance of equipping farming communities with knowledge of their rights.

Senior Scientist & Head KVK Ganderbal, Dr. Ajaz Ahmed Malik, emphasized PPV&FRA as a legal safeguard for farmers and highlighted the workshop as a pivotal step in bridging the gap between scientific innovation and practical farm application. Chief Scientist GPB, FoA Wadura, provided a comprehensive overview of registration procedures and farmers’ rights under PPV&FRA, further enriching the discourse.

On the occasion, Savior Farmers from various districts were felicitated, for their outstanding contributions to agricultural innovation and preservation of local plant varieties, Scientific publications authored by scientists of KVK Ganderbal, were also released.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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